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Microsoft unveils low-cost multitouch prototype

Microsoft unveils a prototype multitouch system that doesn't rely on the …

In what some detractors are dismissing as a game of catch-up, Microsoft unveiled a prototype late last week that can best described as a multitouch system.

What is so unique about Microsoft's invention—named LaserTouch, is that it doesn't rely on the presence of a multitouch display. Instead, LaserTouch uses a low-cost infrared camera and lasers to track user interaction on an otherwise normal screen. The idea is that any screen from a conventional desktop or even a projector can be retrofitted for multitouch interactions.

The technique is simple, with the real magic residing in the system's processing software. Indeed, the range of potential applications could prove more interesting than just plain multitouch alone—how does a virtual chess or boxing game sound?

Don't get too excited, though, as there are unfortunately no plans to turn the system into a product at the moment. Elaborating, Microsoft researcher Andy Wilson noted some glaring issues that still need to be ironed-out. For example, LaserTouch won't work well if there are two users attempting to manipulate the display at the same time.